I am now an avid tea drinker but my first time trying it was riddled with uncertainty and frankly, disappointing.
I lacked the practical knowledge and know-how to brew it correctly.
The tin that the tea arrived in smelt delightful, like a perfume I would wish to wear but upon preparing a cup and drinking it, I would find that the taste is bland and flavorless.
I was let down by the fact that the scent I wished to bask in did not translate well in terms of taste. Sound familiar? I’m sure many tea drinkers, both novice and connoisseurs alike, have experienced such a thing at least once.
Over time, I came to learn that often the taste of the tea was contingent upon the type of water used. The water in my region is dubbed ‘hard’ water because it contains nutrients, minerals and a lime treatment which gives an edge to the water, almost a metallic taste. Often, ‘hard’ water overpowers the natural and light aroma of the tea leaves, resulting in a duller taste. In comparison, ‘soft’ water is easy on the throat and tastes clean.
It usually goes through a multi-step filtration process that strips the water of its minerals, aside from the natural sodium ions, making it ideal for tea. Ways to circumvent the ‘hard’ water issue include using a filter, opting for distilled bottled water or simply doubling the concentration of the tea to compensate for the flavor loss. This, of course, seems like too much trouble for a simple cuppa.
The exclusive Darjeeling tea provided at AJ’s Tea & More stands above the rest because every package of the carefully selected and dried tea leaves leave a deep impression on your palate. Darjeeling leaves are the champagne of teas, a taste for the connoisseurs. Its distinct flavor will be pronounced from the moment you open yours. You will be able to luxuriate in the rich essence and heady scent of the tea as its aroma fills the room. Its superior taste and quality is not beholden to the standards of regular teas. The flavor is maintained regardless of water quality which allows you to experience the tea at its best. A sip of bliss is guaranteed every time.
Meagan Mukhia